When it’s time to add some local exploration to your Outer Banks vacation itinerary, one place shines above the rest: Ocracoke Island. With charming art galleries, delicious restaurants, great fishing and kayaking opportunities, and so much more, it’s one of the most popular day trip locations in the area.
From self-guided walking tours to historic landmarks, you can fill your time learning all about this unique coastal gem while also enjoying the incredible scenery, pristine beaches, and casual coastal life. Get the scoop on how to plan the perfect day trip to Ocracoke Island below!
For more ideas and things to do on your Outer Banks vacation, download our free Vacation Guide. Filled with expert knowledge of the area’s best activities, it will help you level up your vacation and make it one to remember.
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The Charms and Treasures of Ocracoke Island on Your Day Trip
Take a Scenic Ride on the Ferry
A day trip to Ocracoke Island is great for many reasons, but perhaps the best one is that it includes a scenic ferry boat ride! Unless you have access to a private boat, a ferry is the only way to reach the island, and there are three available routes.
Hatteras Ferry
- Ride Duration: 45 to 75 minutes
- Reservations needed? No
- Price: Free
The Hatteras Island Ferry runs every hour, starting at 5 AM until midnight during the off-season. During summer months, additional departures are added every half-hour from 8 AM to 8:30 PM. During peak summer dates, a ferry departs every 15 minutes.
Near the Hatteras Ferry Terminal, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and a convenience store so you can stock up on treats for the ride. The ferry features a small, air-conditioned lounge, restrooms, and plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the views. While you won’t necessarily need a car to get around Ocracoke, this is a vehicle ferry, so you can take your car with you.
Swanquarter Ferry
- Ride Duration: 2.5 hours
- Reservations needed? Yes
- Price: $15 for most vehicles, $10 for motorcycles, $3 for bicycles, $1 for pedestrians
This ferry offers three crossings per day during the off-season and four per day in summer. Near the ferry dock, you’ll find a terminal with a Visitors Center, vending machines, restrooms, and general area information. The large deck and passenger lounge offer excellent viewing opportunities. As the longest ferry in the North Carolina State Ferry System, you’ll have plenty of time to take photos, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Cedar Island Ferry
- Ride Duration: 2.25 hours
- Reservations needed? Yes
- Price: $15 for most vehicles, $10 for motorcycles, $3 for bicycles, $1 for pedestrians
Enjoy three crossings per day in the off-season from 7 AM to 4 PM and six in the summer from 7 AM to 8 PM. The terminal offers a Visitors Center, vending machines, an adjacent restaurant, and a stretch of public shoreline you can explore as you wait for your ride.
Mosey Around the Ocracoke Village
During your trip, you might find yourself in Ocracoke Village. At least, we hope so! There is so much to enjoy around these streets, including cozy coffee shops, delicious cuisine, and excellent shopping opportunities. You’ll find some of the town’s best eateries peppered along the shore of Silver Lake. Talk about breathtaking views! Don’t hesitate to venture further into town, where the beauty is abundant, and the fun never ends. One of the best spots to visit is the Ocracoke Preservation Society. Located just past the ferry docks in the David Williams House, this free museum details the history of the island and is a must-see for any day trip to Ocracoke Island.
Snap a Photograph of the Ocracoke Lighthouse
You won’t have to look far if you’re already in the village. The Ocracoke Lighthouse towers over the town of Ocracoke. While the island is full of history, this lighthouse is by far the most beloved treasure! Finished in 1823, it’s the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina and the second-oldest in the United States. Although you can’t go inside, it’s an excellent photo backdrop!
Explore the Island by Bike or Golf Cart
As you make your way around the island, you’ll often see locals riding bikes through town. Visitors are encouraged to do the same! A leisurely bike ride is the perfect means of transportation as it allows you to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Pedal through the narrow streets of the village, ride along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore at sunset, or even cruise to the Hammock Hills Nature Trail. You’ll be able to park the bikes and venture to some of the most stunning overlooks on the island. Visit Beach Outfitters for all of your bike rental needs.
Perhaps a golf cart rental sounds more your speed. Hop on board with the whole family and spend an afternoon riding around the island. Whichever way you choose to get around, you’re sure to have a blast!
Book Your Stay With Paramount Destinations
Now that you know just how to spend a day trip on Ocracoke Island, it’s time to select your home away from home! What better place to lay your head at night than in one of our luxury beach homes? Book your stay with Paramount Destinations to find beautifully decorated coastal properties in the most ideal locations around the Outer Banks. You’ll have easy access to beaches, shops, restaurants, and more! Browse our portfolio of homes in Corolla, Duck, Currituck Club, and Southern Shores. Which one will feel like home to you?
